A rural upbringing in Nottinghamshire followed by a stint in the weird and wonderful Isle of Man sowed the seed for a career in garden design.

With a background in the television industry Claire went on to study at the London College of Garden Design in the heart of Regent’s Park. A year was spent with fantastic and inspiring lecturers, and just as importantly practitioners, of garden design and landscape construction.

Along with obtaining an RHS Certificate in Horticulture Claire spent two invaluable years getting her hands dirty working for London’s top companies for maintenance and construction. Early morning starts at Covent Garden Flower Market and rainy afternoons spent in the gardens equipped her with an in depth knowledge of plants, cultivation and design.  This insight also set the bar high in terms of the standard of newly installed gardens.

Following graduation from the London College of Garden Design, Claire enjoyed a year designing for a North London company. This experience was greatly beneficial as it gave her hands-on experience both designing and visiting site during the construction phase.

After designing gardens in London, Claire moved to Bristol to embrace life in a city surrounded so closely by the scenic landscape of Somerset and Gloucestershire.

To view a range of Iron Butterfly Design’s gardens and landscapes visit the gallery.